How to get to Tallinn

Tallinn is the picturesque capital of Estonia, situated on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, where the medieval charm of the Old Town sits side by side with modern business life. When planning how to get to Tallinn, you will appreciate its convenient geographical location: numerous air, sea, and land routes lead here. This city is ideal both for a short weekend getaway and as the starting point for a grand journey across the Baltic region.

The fastest way to reach the country is by flying into the international Tallinn Airport (TLL). It is located just 4 kilometers from the city center, making the transfer incredibly quick and convenient. The airport receives flights from many European capitals and is considered one of the coziest and most technologically advanced in the region.

If direct tickets are unavailable, an excellent alternative is flying to Helsinki. The Finnish capital is just 80 km away across the gulf, and from there it is easy to reach Estonia by ferry. There are also small regional airports in the cities of Pärnu and Kärdla, but they primarily serve local or charter flights.

Rail connections link the capital with other regions of the country via the Baltic Station (Balti jaam), located right by the walls of the Old Town. Modern and comfortable trains operated by Elron run throughout Estonia, allowing you to easily arrive from cities such as Tartu, Narva, or Pärnu.

Direct international rail service is limited; however, travelers can plan a route with a transfer in the border town of Valga when traveling from Latvia. It is important to remember that there are no railway lines to island cities, such as Kärdla, so one must travel there by other means.

Bus travel is one of the most popular ways to explore the region. Comfortable coaches run regularly from the city of Pärnu, covering a distance of about 120 km in approximately 2.6 hours. The route from the city of Kärdla (about 157 km) takes around 4 hours and includes a ferry crossing from the island of Hiiumaa.

A unique option is the route from the Finnish capital: buses from the city of Helsinki drive onto a ferry, cross the Gulf of Finland, and continue the journey by land. The total travel time is about 2.7–3 hours (including the crossing), linking the two capitals into a single transport network.

Traveling by car offers the freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery. The drive from Estonia's summer capital, the city of Pärnu (127 km), takes place on a good highway and takes just about 1.7 hours. For the route from the city of Kärdla (156 km), you will need about 6.7 hours, as the journey involves waiting for and taking a ferry from the island to the mainland.

If you are driving from the city of Helsinki (88 km), the vehicle must be transported by ferry across the Gulf of Finland. The net driving and crossing time is estimated at approximately 3.2 hours, but it is worth allowing extra time for check-in at the port. This is an excellent way to combine a sea cruise with a road trip.

To ensure your stay in the capital of Estonia is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, we have prepared a list of important recommendations. This city combines a medieval atmosphere with advanced digital infrastructure.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The weather on the Baltic is changeable, so dressing in layers is your best friend. For walking on the cobblestones of the Old Town, be sure to choose comfortable flat shoes.
2. Transport. The city center is compact and ideal for walking. For trips to outlying districts, use the unified travel card ("Green Card") or contactless payment with a bank card at the validator.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Estonia is one of the most "cashless" countries in the world; cards are accepted almost everywhere, even at markets.
4. Health and Safety. Tallinn is a safe city, but standard precautions are always wise. Pharmacies are well-stocked, and tap water is safe to drink.
5. Communication. Most locals, especially the youth and service sector workers, speak excellent English. Russian is also widely spoken and understood by many.
6. Local Etiquette. Estonians value reserve and personal space. Greetings are usually limited to a handshake, and loud conversations in public transport are not customary.
7. What to Avoid. Do not buy souvenirs (especially amber) on the Town Hall Square—prices there are often inflated. It is better to look for shops in the side streets or creative quarters.
8. Gourmet Advice. Be sure to try the local black bread, spiced sprats, and marzipan, which is considered here not just a sweet treat, but a remedy for the soul.

By following these simple tips, you will feel not just like a tourist, but like a welcome guest in this amazing Hanseatic city.